Sanyo Electric has released a new electric hybrid bicycle that can triple the user’s pedal power to make it easier to climb hills. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

…the “eneloop bike” takes the crossover between a normal bicycle and a moped one-step further, aiming to tap growing interest in tackling global warming. The system draws the power from the braking during the downhill, and add extra power equivalent to double the rider’s pedal force for going uphill, in line with relaxed government restrictions on such systems.

The Sanyo Electric hybrid bicycle is going to cost you approx $1,430 to get one. It will be available starting February 2009 in Japan.

[via New Launches]